Ekiti: INEC, IPAC Warn Against Violence As Campaigns Begin Ahead Of June 20 Governorship Election

By Joseph Sunday 

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Ekiti State have cautioned political parties and candidates against violence, hate speech, and misinformation as campaigns for the 2026 governorship election gathers momentum.

The warning was issued on Tuesday at a civic engagement programme organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, in Ekiti State, held at there headquarters located in New Iyin Ekiti road, in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, where electoral stakeholders and youths converged to discuss election integrity and participation.

Speaking at the event, Ekiti State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Bunmi Omoseyindemi, said INEC, in collaboration with security agencies, would closely monitor political rallies, processions, and campaigns across the state and apply sanctions where necessary.

He reminded political parties to notify security agencies ahead of rallies, avoid hate speech and inciting statements, adhere to approved venues and timelines, and ensure that supporters conduct themselves peacefully throughout the campaign period.

Omoseyindemi also announced that INEC has published the final list of governorship candidates and their running mates in line with the Electoral Act 2022, noting that the campaign period has entered a critical phase that requires restraint and respect for the law.

The INEC boss commended KDI for introducing Naija Elections, an AI-powered platform aimed at improving access to credible electoral information, particularly for youths and first-time voters, stressing that informed citizens are key to a credible democratic process.

On his part, IPAC Chairman in Ekiti State, Hon. Owoola Daramola, said political parties in the state have agreed at the leadership level to conduct peaceful and violence-free campaigns ahead of the election.

Daramola, however, warned that violence could only arise from desperate candidates determined to win at all costs, assuring residents that IPAC would not hesitate to intervene if any party or candidate engages in actions capable of disrupting the peace of the state.